Politicians in the house

About half-way through Sunday's 4 1/2 hour service, an entourage of important-looking people came into church and were ushered into Pastor Emmanuel's office. The first two rows of one section were quickly and quietly vacated and these six people were seated. The pastor introduced the men as current government officials and hopeful candidates, and the people were really excited; they whooped and hollered for them. Then we were announced, since Eric was the guest speaker (no, they didn't yell for us; we just got a polite round of applause). Pastor Emmanuel welcomed the politicians to the stage and let their leader, who I think was the equivalent of a congressman, introduce the group and speak for a few minutes. He spoke about his commitment to God and the church affiliations of his running mates, and he encouraged the people to get out and vote Sunday, December 7th. The pastor reiterated that the church has been praying for peaceful elections and for humble public officials who will serve God and the people well. He had the politicians stand before the altar as he prayed over them. He beckoned Eric to join him in laying hands on them and praying. They were not necessarily praying for the success of these individuals, but for the best for Ghana - for righteousness and justice and integrity in government. While something else was going on, the pastor called over Richard, his right-hand man, and told him to ask the politician if he wanted to give an offering. He pulled out several bills, which Richard brought up to the platform, showed the people the kind gift, and even announced the amount the congressman had given! Of course, the crowd cheered. Then, the entourage let pastor know they had to leave, and they were off to the next campaigning opportunity. I wish they would have stayed for Eric's sermon about repentance and the Kingdom of God, but they missed out. He did a great job bringing insight into the sermon on the mount, even though the crowd had already been at church for 3 1/2 hours by the time he began.

When I found out that these special guests were politicians, I remembered that one of my dear friends that is on our prayer team was praying with me the week before we left and said that she felt the Lord revealed to her that Eric and I would meet some government officials while we were in Ghana. Well, Marilyn, you heard correctly! God is bringing His purposes to pass. We are thrilled to be able to join the people here in prayer for their upcoming elections and to pray over several of their officials, as well.

- Velvet